Opening My Eyes || If You Ask Me What’s the Most Expensive but Worthwhile Thing I’ve Bought—It Has to Be These

When I was writing my spring happiness list, I mentioned that my birthday gift to myself this year would be seeing cherry blossoms. At one point, it seemed like that wish wouldn’t come true—visa delays and travel hiccups nearly ruined the plan. But life surprised me: a last-minute business trip to Seoul landed me right in the middle of full bloom, under glorious spring sunshine.

Though I only had three days, I managed to squeeze in a lot between work—cherry blossom viewing, art exhibitions, park strolls, shopping… I even finally had the grilled beef intestines I’d been craving! It felt like I crossed off half my spring bucket list in one go. What a joy.

Even though I didn’t plan any shopping this time (I splurged a bit too much in Paris before), I still picked up a few delightful little things along the way~ ▼

This trip to Seoul was actually for a special event—an Hermès show I was invited to.

I’ve seen quite a few Hermès runway shows over the years, but this one was unlike any other.

It was… a home collection show.

Even the invitation was different—it came in a wooden box.

Curious how a home collection walks a runway?
Models carrying furniture on their shoulders?
Furniture spinning around like sushi on a conveyor belt?

None of the above. If it were that predictable, it wouldn’t be Hermès.

As the lights dimmed and the show began, performers emerged carrying wooden crates of all shapes and sizes—some panting under the weight like movers, others light-footed and graceful, executing complex acrobatic moves.

And when they opened the crates—gasps filled the room. Inside were chairs, tables, lamps…
More than 400 pieces in total.
A true visual feast.

The “movers” were actually dancers, models, gymnasts, and acrobats. They told stories through movement, bringing Hermès furniture to life with rhythm and play. It wasn’t just a presentation—it was a parade of personality. A delightful, theatrical tribute to design.

People often associate Hermès with Birkin and Kelly bags—but I’ve always felt the brand is just as defined by its craftsmanship and humor. Yes, humor. And nowhere is that clearer than in the #HERMÈS PARADE home show.

So today, welcome back to my long-lost “Luxury Deep Dive” column. Let’s talk about Hermès Home—not the bags or scarves—but the furniture and décor that rarely gets the spotlight.

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The Leather Sofa

For years, I’ve told myself: one day, I’ll buy a Hermès leather sofa. One day.

Well, years passed. Then my parents moved into a new home. That was the excuse I needed. I finally “took the plunge” and gifted them a leather loveseat—for their housewarming and anniversary. I told them: “From now on, every day you sit here, drinking tea and watching TV, know that I love you.”

Best decision ever.

At the show, this very sofa (a single-seater version of it, the J-M Frank reissue) was a star. Displayed right at the center of the venue—everyone wanted a seat, a photo, a closer look. I picked the same color, too.

It may look modest at first glance, but the story behind it is rich. Originally designed in 1924 in collaboration with Jean-Michel Frank, this was his first time using leather in furniture. Hermès made it happen with their signature saddle stitching.

The craftsmanship speaks for itself. The leather, the seams, the lines—once you see it, you understand why brands call their top-tier products “the Hermès of their field.”

Available in classic gold, elephant grey, ivory white, and more.

Another lesser-known but equally iconic piece by J-M Frank is this cast-iron table and chair set. In a time when ornate and elaborate furniture dominated, his minimalist philosophy felt like a breath of fresh air—foreshadowing the modernism that followed.

Also featured in the show was the sillage d’Hermès armchair from Milan Design Week 2021. Unlike the sofa, this one has a rugged texture, hand-painted lines, and an almost storybook charm.

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Sofa Sellier Rattan Edition

You’ve probably seen this one—it’s the quintessential Hermès home piece. Woven rattan paired with warm brown leather and signature Hermès orange. Elegant, simple, and instantly recognizable.

It debuted in 2016 at the Milan Furniture Fair. Hermès invited Mexican architect Mauricio Rocha to design the installation, which was made of adobe brick to symbolize home as a haven—a space of harmony and happiness.

It was their first time using rattan in furniture. The woven screen armrests create a light, relaxed vibe. The frame is Canaletto walnut, and the cushions mix canvas and leather.

Just like a carriage’s interior, the sofa hides thoughtful pockets—clever storage like this:

• A leather box tucked behind the screen
• A magazine pouch stitched into the armrest with saddle stitching

And the leather? It’s Taurillon H—an exquisite, supple bull leather. I joke that the leather used for one sofa could make how many Birkins or Kellys? Suddenly, the sofa feels like a great deal.

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Rattan Cart

Speaking of rattan—most people know the iconic Hermès picnic bag. But few know about the Diligence rattan cart, which absolutely stole my heart when I saw it in-store. And yes, it made an appearance at the show too.

It draws inspiration from the classic Hermès four-wheeled carriage. Made with pale willow wicker and framed in maple wood, wrapped in H leather, finished with brass—it’s functional, whimsical, and unlike anything else in their collection.

Movement is a big part of Hermès design—after all, the brand began with horse gear. So mobility is woven into their home philosophy too.

Take the Attelage desk, for instance. The smaller unit slides freely and stores plenty.

Or the Pippa chair—it folds neatly and travels easily between rooms.

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Side Tables

Among the smaller pieces, the Les Trotteuses side tables stood out.

With a nomadic spirit, they blend saddle leather, oak, and ceramics. You can remove the ceramic tray, fold the wooden base, and stash it away. Smart and stylish.

I waited a long time for mine—it arrived last year, and I sent it with the sofa to my parents. Oddly enough, despite its totally different look, it complements the sofa beautifully.

There are three heights and colorways to mix and match.

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Chairs

Another favorite: the Metiers armchair. True to Hermès design language—pure and honest, built for comfort and longevity.

Just look at those curved armrests—you can already imagine how smooth and burnished they’ll get over time.

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Throws and Bed Covers

Throughout the show, the performers flipped, climbed, danced—except in one corner: the bed scene. There, models lounged motionless for hours, looking utterly serene.

One moment stole the show—when dancers held the throws high and let them float through the air, revealing their lightness.

I’ve written countless times about Hermès throws. That phrase in my book—“softer than a kiss, warmer than a hug”—was born the moment I touched their cashmere.

Sadly, I lost my favorite grey one. Replaced it with a blue version in the bedroom. What amazes me is that after all these years, it’s still pill-free—and even softer.

Their most iconic blanket is the Avalon. A cashmere-wool blend, thick but weightless, warm yet breathable.

They even have a baby-sized version now, in a gender-neutral “biscuit” tone alongside the classic pink and blue. The logo’s softer too—gentler and cuter.

At 1m x 1.4m, it’s just the right size to double as a shawl. My friend once said she got one “for the baby,” but I suspect she ended up using it herself.

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Porcelain

Now to my favorite corner: the porcelain exhibit. It felt like walking through a magical night.

Passifolia Jungle Series

Hermès tableware makes the perfect gift. Honestly, part of the reason I have a reputation for “great gift-giving” among my friends is thanks to their porcelain.

With Hermès, it’s always the same magic: top-tier materials, time-honored craftsmanship.

Their porcelain comes from Limoges, France—renowned for its kaolin clay and mastery. The results? Glossy, delicate, yet durable pieces. Many are artist collaborations, each a miniature artwork.

Plus, they’re relatively “affordable” by Hermès standards:
Small plates/mugs ~ $200
Full dinner plates ~ $500

Here are some of my favorite sets for gifting (or self-gifting):

• A Walk in the Garden – My personal pick for the most beautiful Hermès tableware. Soft greens and floral sketches feel like spring brought indoors.
• Cheval d’Orient – The classic horse motif, meticulously hand-painted. A timeless favorite.
• Bleus d’Ailleurs – Now discontinued, but stunning. Inspired by nature’s geometry—petals, honeycombs, pinecones—and Chinese blue-and-white porcelain. Calm, elegant, unforgettable.

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If you’ve ever wondered whether something that expensive could be worth it—these are the kinds of things that say, “Yes.”
Not just because of the price, but the story, the feeling, the joy of having something both beautiful and meaningful.

Sometimes, beauty really does open your eyes.